Apple Music is getting a major upgrade with AutoMix, a new AI-powered feature in iOS 26 that mixes songs together like a professional DJ. Designed to deliver continuous, uninterrupted playback, AutoMix analyses audio features like the tempo and key of tracks to create “unique transitions” that mimic the flow of a live DJ set.

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While Spotify’s crossfade feature simply overlaps the end of one song with the start of another, AutoMix takes things further. Using Apple Intelligence, the tool incorporates techniques like “time stretching and beat matching” to deliver an “even more seamless listening experience”.

The rollout arrives alongside Apple’s growing push into DJ-friendly tools. Earlier this year, the Cupertino giant launched its “DJ with Apple Music” initiative, which allows subscribers to access their catalogue directly on DJ hardware and software platforms such as rekordbox, Serato DJ Pro, Engine DJ and Algoriddim’s djay Pro.

Aside from AutoMix, iOS 26 also introduces Lyrics Translation, which translates song lyrics in real-time to help users understand tracks in other languages. Working alongside it is Lyrics Pronunciation, which guides listeners through the phonetics of foreign-language songs.

“The new features use machine learning to translate lyrics – with fine-tuning from language experts – to ensure the emotion, cultural context, and lyrical intent are fully preserved,” says Apple.

Sing also gets a boost on iOS 26. The karaoke-style feature now turns your iPhone into a live microphone when paired with Apple TV, complete with voice amplification, real-time lyrics, and on-screen effects for a more immersive performance and a “new level of fun”.

Finally, a new pinning option lets users keep their favourite songs and albums at the top of their Apple Music library for easy access.

Learn more about iOS 26 at Apple.

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